Teacher’s Social Life Exposed in School Ban

Westfield Academy Educator Faced Professional Discipline

Naisha Blackmore, 36, a design technology head at Westfield Academy in Yeovil, Somerset, has been indefinitely barred from teaching following an investigation by the Teaching Regulation Agency. The panel determined her actions breached professional conduct standards, including sharing personal details and engaging in informal interactions with students.

During the inquiry, Blackmore admitted to disclosing “inappropriate information” about her private life, such as relationships and nights of excessive drinking. She also shared derogatory remarks about another individual in her messages and described her own behavior during a hen night, mentioning smoking, vaping, and alcohol consumption. These disclosures occurred in front of pupils, according to the report.

“Pupil A said the teacher saw them as friends, not students,” the findings stated. The report highlighted that up to five students visited Blackmore during breaks and lunchtimes, while one pupil claimed they developed a close bond, exchanging personal stories and discussing everything from daily experiences to family matters.

Blackmore acknowledged arranging a meeting with students outside school hours, including a gathering to see her dog at the Yeovil Recreational Centre. She explained that the students provided emotional support after her dog’s death, which she credited as a reason for her return to work. However, the panel deemed these actions as “serious misconduct,” citing a failure to maintain professional boundaries.

The report noted that Blackmore joined a pupil’s Instagram group chat and invited them to meet her dog, actions that violated staff conduct guidelines. A parent, however, expressed confidence in her teaching, stating she had “always been a really good teacher” and never felt any wrongdoing was occurring.

The panel concluded that Blackmore’s behavior “significantly fell below the expected standards for the profession,” resulting in an indefinite ban. She may request a review of this decision after two years. Follow BBC Somerset on Facebook and X. Share story ideas via email or WhatsApp at 0800 313 4630.